MS in Information Systems
One degree. Two ways to earn it.
Northeastern University's MS in Information Systems (MSIS) is available fully online and on-ground at campuses across the country. Both are Northeastern University College of Engineering degrees. The credential is identical. Compare the differences below.
Online MS in Information Systems
Built for flexibility and accessibility. 100% asynchronous, no campus required, and no prior tech background needed.
On-Ground MS in Information Systems
Built for full-time, hands-on learning. In-person classrooms, campus community, and co-op built into your degree.
Side by side details
How they compare.
| Online | On-Ground | |
|---|---|---|
| Format and schedule | ||
| Delivery | 100% online, asynchronousOptional weekly faculty office hours | In-person, on-groundInteractive, participatory classroom experience |
| Location | Study from anywhere | 8 campusesArlington, Boston, Miami, Portland, Seattle, Silicon Valley, Toronto, Vancouver |
| Pace | Part-time friendlyRoughly 8 to 10 hours per week per course, typically one course per term | Full-time or part-time |
| Duration | 16 to 32 months | 24 to 36 months |
| Entry terms | 3 per yearSpring, summer, fall | Fall and spring only |
| Cost | ||
| Total tuition | ~$24,600$3,075 per course × 8 courses, pay-as-you-go | ~$61,728AY 2025–2026 estimate, subject to change |
| Payment | Pay per courseNo long-term tuition commitment upfront. Financial aid eligible after matriculation. | Standard semester billingFinancial aid eligible |
| Admissions | ||
| Application type | Fast App or standard applicationFast App: no essays, no application fee, performance-based, enrolled in minutes | Standard graduate application |
| Required materials | Fast App: transcripts onlyStandard: transcripts, two letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, résumé | Transcripts, two letters of recommendation, statement of purpose, résumé |
| GRE | Not required | Not requiredFor terms starting 2025–2026 |
| Prior tech background | Not requiredDesigned for all academic backgrounds | Required for standard MSISNo tech background? The on-ground MSIS Bridge program is designed specifically for non-STEM and nontechnical bachelor's degree holders, with no programming or math prerequisites required. |
| F-1 visa eligible | No | Yes |
| Student experience | ||
| Co-op | Not availableExperiential learning is integrated into all coursework. | AvailableUp to 8 months of professional experience |
| Graduation ceremony | Yes, Boston campus | Yes, campus of enrollment |
Tuition figures are estimates and do not include fees or other expenses. On-ground tuition reflects the Academic Year 2025–2026 estimate and is subject to revision by the president and Board of Trustees at any time. Some courses and labs have tuition rates that may increase or decrease total tuition. Program details and entry terms are subject to change. Ranking source: U.S. News & World Report, Best Engineering Schools, 2026.
What both programs share
The things that are the same.
The same diploma
Both programs award a Master of Science in Information Systems from Northeastern University's College of Engineering. The diploma does not reference "online" or a specific campus.
The same faculty
Online and on-ground students are taught by the same College of Engineering faculty. The professors who teach on-ground sections also teach the online sections.
The same credit count
Both programs are 32 credits and the degree requirements are identical. You enroll in one format and complete the full degree in that format, so neither path is shorter, longer, or worth less than the other.
The same employer recognition
MSIS graduates from both programs are hired at Google, Microsoft, Deloitte, Oracle, IBM, and organizations across every industry. The credential carries the same weight in the job market.
Top 40 engineering school
Northeastern's College of Engineering is ranked Top 40 by U.S. News & World Report (2026). That ranking applies to every program in the college, both online and on-ground alike.
Free badge courses
All enrolled students unlock free access to non-credit badge courses, normally $499 each, the moment they enroll. Build credentials before your first degree course begins.
Ready when you are
Take the next step.
Both programs lead to the same Northeastern University College of Engineering degree. Choose the format that fits your life and we'll take it from there.